Disclosure: I was invited to an advanced screening of this film and a night of fun at Disney’s Polynesian Resort Village to celebrate its release. Amazon links are affiliate links.

Photo via Disney

Moana Review | Packed with girl power

After seeing a presentation about Moana at the 2015 D23 Expo, me and my fiancé were drawn to the music and culture. I knew it would be a Disney movie to remember. I was invited to screen Moana at one of the most magical Disney Parks Blog events ever. We watched Moana on a big screen right on the Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort beach. It was incredible. I’ll have more from that soon but read on for my spoiler free Moana review.

Auli’i Cravalho voice of Moana | Photo via Disney

I had a lot of trust in Moana directors John Musker and Ron Clements who are also the duo behind The Little Mermaid and Aladdin. While the directors may be long time pros, newcomer Auli’i Cravalho, voice of Moana, was an instant star and the highlight of the film for me. Moana is packed with girl power at sea. It meant a great deal to me to see such a confident and courageous female lead. Moana is absolutely one for little girls to look up to. She sets out on an adventure alone and against the will of most of her family. She’s a leader but the story shows she’s human, too, and has self doubt that she overcomes through visiting her roots. Moana and Maui, voiced by Dwayne The Rock Johnson, are the perfect pair of adventurers. Most of the movie has just these two characters in it but it’s still smooth sailing. There’s also a character that might make you think of me. The culture in Moana is beautifully combined with just the right amount of magic. Disney topped themselves once again with visuals and Lin-Manuel Miranda delivers some seriously catchy songs. If you loved Gerald in Finding Dory, Heihei the rooster is going to be your new best friend. Moana is now in theaters!